The benefits of regular accurate stock takes cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental aspect of retail management to be fully aware of an operations stock holding at any one time. The information derived from Stock Valuations and Inventories can be used to drive the purchasing process, identify lines that are delivering poor returns on investment and also highlight trends with regard to theft and obsolescence. In the current economic climate, with reduced turnover and resulting margins, a solid control of stock is even more critical.